Streptokinase: The Life-Saving Clot-Buster for Heart Attack and Stroke
Streptokinase is a thrombolytic agent that’s essential in the emergency treatment of heart attacks, ischemic strokes, and pulmonary embolisms. It dissolves blood clots that block arteries, restoring blood flow to vital organs. Given its ability to quickly break down fibrin, the protein that holds blood clots together, Streptokinase is a critical tool in saving lives when used in time.
How It Works
Streptokinase activates plasminogen, which then converts into plasmin, the enzyme responsible for breaking down fibrin clots. By doing this, Streptokinase dissolves clots in arteries, reducing the damage caused by ischemia and preventing tissue death in the heart, brain, or lungs.
Indications
● Acute Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): To restore blood flow in patients experiencing a heart attack.
● Ischemic Stroke: Administered within 3-4.5 hours of symptom onset to dissolve clots in the brain.
● Pulmonary Embolism: Used for life-threatening clots in the lungs.
Dosage
● Acute MI: 1.5 million IU infused intravenously over 30-60 minutes.
● Stroke: 250,000 IU initially over 30 minutes, followed by 100,000 IU/hour over the next 12 hours and in case of deep vein thrombosis over 72 hours.
● Pulmonary Embolism: 1.5 million IU infused intravenously over 1-2 hours.
Side Effects
● Common: Bleeding, low blood pressure, fever, nausea, and injection site reactions.
● Serious: Major bleeding (GI or intracranial hemorrhage), allergic reactions, and reperfusion arrhythmias.
● Pregnancy Category: Category C (should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks).
Common Indian Brands
● Streptase
● Streptokinase (Generic) by various manufacturers